Nigerian Navy foils oil theft attempt, apprehends suspected smuggler

The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom, has intercepted a suspected oil thief en route to Cameroon with 15,500 litres of suspected Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

Captain Uche Aneke, the Commanding Officer, revealed the arrest at Ibaka while handing over the suspect and the seized product to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC).

The suspect was apprehended around 2:00 a.m. on Friday following intelligence reports indicating a boat transporting suspected smuggled products through FOB Ibaka’s operational area towards Cameroon.

Upon interception, the navy discovered the boat concealed 15,500 litres of suspected PMS under a tarpaulin, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspected smuggler onboard.

Captain Aneke emphasised the navy’s commitment to combating illegal activities, warning against smuggling in or out of the country.

He highlighted the use of advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence to detect criminal activities within the operational area, stressing that Nigeria’s water and coastal regions are off-limits for illegal operations.

Etefia Koko-Ette, Head of the Anti-Vandal Unit of the NSCDC command in Akwa Ibom, received the seized exhibit, affirming that further investigation would be conducted into the matter.